Key lessons emerging from the Swakopmund long term planning approach are as follows:
The plan is strongly linked to the powers and functions of the municipality and as such is not reliant on other levels of government to achieve development goals and objectives The identified projects appear to be proactively developing the necessary infrastructure of the city such as the construction of the future sewerage works Highly visible projects have also been developed to support the growth of the town’s economy through the promotion of tourism
The plans and projects are measurable, actively monitored with strict budgeting and controls in place.
“Promote development for the benefit of the community, tendering and financing are as crucial as a clear relation between CEO and council.” /Marco Swarts, CEO Swakopmund, Namibia/
Case Study 8: Guarulhos, Brazil As an intermediary city within the fabric of Sao Paulo, the City of Guarulhos faces a number of challenges with respect to the growth and development of the city in a sustainable manner. Proximity: Due to its close proximity to a dominating city of Sao Paulo, Guarulhos experiences negative influences as it is overshadowed and has to bear the consequence of every decision that Sao Paulo takes. While the city plans are aligned to national government priorities, the most significant challenge is the shortage of water and housing. This directly impacts on the livelihood of communities.
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